Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy: Notice its characteristic three leaf pattern.

Poison ivy and other similar plants can cause an allergic reaction which results in a itchy rash. The plant is characterized by its three leaf pattern which can be remembered by the phrase, “Leaves of three, let it be”. However, poison ivy is not the only North American plant which can give you an allergic reaction.

Plant Varieties

There are several closely related plants found in North America that can give you an allergic reaction.

Poison Ivy – Characterized by its three leaf pattern and hairy vine

Poison Oak – A small shrub that produces white berries

Poison Sumac – Branches lined with two rows of leaves and produces green or white berries

If you suspect that you have come into contact with poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac, immediately wash the affected area with rubbing alcohol or soap and cold water.

Causes of Rashes

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac plants contain an oil, Urushiol, that is extremely irritating to the skin. It may be brushed onto the clothing or skin of people coming in contact with the plants. The only way that you can have an allergic reaction is is you come into contact with the oil that these plants produce.

People with rashes from poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac are not contagious. This means that coming into contact with an affected person’s blisters will not cause you to develop rashes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of exposure to poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac are usually characterized by the following:

Severe itching of the skin

Red streaks or general redness where skin to plant contact occurred

Small bumps or hives

Blisters that may or may not leak fluid

If you feel you have symptoms of poison ivy, oak, or sumac, we recommend scheduling an appointment with us today. Our board certified dermatologist, Dr. Mary Noël George, will review condition and prescribe treatment options if necessary.

Treatment

At George Dermatology, we generally treat poison ivy, oak, or sumac rashes with lotions and oral antihistamines. Depending on the severity, we may need to prescribe oral steriods. Granted, treatment is dependent on your individual symptoms and medical history.

Do You Suffer From Itchy Red Rashes Resulting From Poison Ivy, Oak, or Sumac?

Make sure that you get the right treatment for your rash in order to limit long term damage to you and your skin. Set up an appointment with our board certified dermatologist today.

What Our Patients Are Saying

Dr. George and her staff are WONDERFUL!! Dr. George is VERY professional, yet very personal. She ALWAYS takes the time to ask and chat about my children for a few minutes that were former patients of hers. She NEVER rushes me and answers all of my concerns. Dr. George is a VERY down to earth person. Thank you Dr. George and staff for being so caring.